Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in New York
Based on 169K+ workers in New York
Median Annual Salary (NY)
$35,250
$16.95/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
+15.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $45K
169K employed in New York
The median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New York is $35,250 per year, or $17 per hour. This figure is 15.3% higher than the national average for this role. In New York, approximately 168,620 individuals are employed in this sector, indicating a significant presence in the state's workforce.
Several factors influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New York. These can include the specific employer, the worker's experience level, and the geographic location within the state. For instance, roles in higher cost-of-living areas might command a higher wage than those in less expensive regions, reflecting the broader economic landscape.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in New York
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $32,240 |
| 25th percentile | $34,350 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,250 |
| 75th percentile | $37,140 |
| 90th percentile | $44,740 |
Top-Paying Industries for Fast Food and Counter Worker (U.S.)
Which industries pay Fast Food and Counter Workers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Fast Food and Counter Workers in New York tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation and Warehousing | $38,740 | 390 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $37,820 | 18K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $36,850 | 17K |
| Educational Services | $35,370 | 117K |
| Wholesale Trade | $34,990 | 4K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Fast Food and Counter Worker in New York vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New York) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,250 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,308 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New York Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,250 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,308 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in New York
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $34,350 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,250 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $37,140 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $44,740 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in New York
How other high-demand occupations in New York compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($35,250 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waiter and Waitress in NY | $47,020 | +33.4% | $22.61/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in NY | $43,680 | +23.9% | $21.00/hr |
| Cashier in NY | $35,500 | +0.7% | $17.07/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NY | $37,720 | +7.0% | $18.13/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NY | $39,030 | +10.7% | $18.76/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NY | $39,620 | +12.4% | $19.05/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in NY | $42,000 | +19.1% | $20.19/hr |
| Receptionist in NY | $43,080 | +22.2% | $20.71/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in NY | $43,930 | +24.6% | $21.12/hr |
| Security Guard in NY | $44,240 | +25.5% | $21.27/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in NY | $47,960 | +36.1% | $23.06/hr |
| Medical Assistant in NY | $48,000 | +36.2% | $23.08/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in New York?
- The salary range for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in New York typically falls between $32,240 and $44,740 annually. This range reflects variations in experience, employer, and location within the state.
How does the median Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in New York compare to the national average?
- The median salary for Fast Food and Counter Workers in New York is 15.3% higher than the national average. This means New York workers generally earn more, with a median of $35,250 per year compared to the national median.
What is the hourly rate for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in New York?
- On average, Fast Food and Counter Workers in New York earn $17 per hour. This hourly rate is derived from the annual median salary of $35,250.
Is the Fast Food and Counter Worker job market in New York large?
- Yes, the job market for Fast Food and Counter Workers in New York is substantial. There are approximately 168,620 individuals employed in this sector across the state, indicating a strong demand for these services.